Almaty: A City at the Crossroads

Almaty, Kazakhstan, isn't just a stunning mountain metropolis; it's a city woven into the fabric of history. Almaty's strategic location fostered a unique cultural blend, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Today's Almaty is a city of contrasts. In  Almaty, you can go from shopping at a shiny new mall to haggling for treasures at a bustling bazaar – all in the same day! You can spend the morning skiing down snow-capped mountains and the afternoon strolling through museums brimming with ancient artifacts. This captivating blend of old and new is what makes Almaty such a fascinating destination.

Best time to visit

June-Sept: Warmest weather, ideal for outdoor adventures.

April-May & September-October: Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and potentially lower costs. Great for sightseeing and exploring.

December-February: Winter wonderland with excellent skiing, but it's the coldest time to visit.

Places to visit:

Powder Paradise: Ski Slopes Await at Shymbulak

Carve fresh tracks on epic slopes! Shymbulak, Kazakhstan's top ski resort, beckons with thrilling runs, stunning mountain views, and modern lifts. A short trip from Almaty, it's a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. 

A Touch of Tranquillity: Zenkov’s Cathedral

Escape the city's buzz and find serenity at the Zenkov Cathedral. Built entirely of wood in 1907, it's the second-tallest wooden building in the world.  Admire the intricate details and marvel at the engineering feat that has stood the test of time.

Big Almaty Lake

Escape the city to discover the stunning Big Almaty Lake, a picturesque alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Hike scenic trails, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and experience serene beauty in this Instagram-worthy paradise. Explore nature's beauty at Big Almaty Lake.

Soaring Above the City: Kok-Tobe Park

For a panoramic perspective and a touch of adrenaline, head to Kok-Tobe Park. Take a thrilling ride on the cable car, ascending over 1,000 meters to reach the top. Once there, be mesmerized by breathtaking views of the city sprawling beneath you, framed by the majestic Tian Shan mountains. The park itself offers a plethora of activities, from amusement rides for families to a charming café perfect for a relaxing break.

A Step Back in Time: The Central State Museum of Kazakhstan

Delve into Kazakhstan's fascinating past at the Central State Museum.  This grand building houses an impressive collection of over 300,000 artifacts that tell the story of the country's rich history and culture.  Explore exhibits showcasing everything from ancient nomadic traditions to the Soviet era and gain a deeper appreciation for Kazakhstan's unique identity.

Honor & History Collide: Unveiling Panfilov Park

Almaty's Panfilov Park isn't just a green escape; it's a poignant tribute to heroism.  Stroll through serene gardens and towering trees, then stand in awe at the towering monument commemorating the brave soldiers who defended Moscow during WWII.  Panfilov Park offers a moving blend of nature, history, and local reverence.

Things to Do

Skate Under the Stars: Medeu's Icy Magic Awaits!

Experience Medeu, the world's highest skating rink near Almaty, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It's renowned for breaking skating records but offers fun for all. Skate under the stars, then enjoy hot chocolate at a nearby café. Medeu is not just a rink; it's a magical winter experience.

Dress Up for a Night of Drama: Abay Opera House Enchants

The Abay Kazakh State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater in Almaty offers world-class entertainment with opera, ballet, and live orchestra performances in a grand architectural setting. Dress up for a sophisticated social event, enjoy refreshments during intermission, and immerse yourself in the elegant atmosphere for a memorable cultural experience in Almaty.

Treasure Hunt at the Green Bazaar: Almaty's Shopping Paradise

At Almaty's Green Bazaar, indulge in a sensory experience with unique finds like silk scarves, jewellery, spices, antiques, and souvenirs at budget-friendly prices. Enjoy the thrill of bargaining and friendly interactions with vendors for a memorable shopping experience.

Animal Encounters Await: Exploring Almaty Zoo

Almaty Zoo houses over 6,000 animals, including snow leopards and monkeys, spot local favorites like Siberian tigers and endangered Przewalski's horses alongside a variety of animals from around the world. It's a fun and educational destination for families and animal lovers.

Fun for All at Gorky Central Park (aka Park Gorkogo)

Almaty's Gorky Central Park, locally known as Park Gorkogo, offers family-friendly entertainment with shady paths, gardens, and various attractions. It features amusement rides, a carousel, playgrounds, monuments, and local vendors. The park is bustling on weekends, ideal for picnics, cycling, and capturing the local atmosphere.

Do’s

Dress for the weather: Almaty has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.

Carry cash: While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases at markets and local shops.

Savor the cuisine: Indulge in traditional dishes like shashlik (grilled meat skewers), plov (rice pilaf), or beshbarmak (noodle soup with horsemeat).

Learn some basic Kazakh phrases: A few key words like "рахмет" (rakhmet - thank you) and "сәлем" (sәlem - hello) go a long way in showing respect to the locals.

Don’t

Forget to bargain: Haggling is expected at the Green Bazaar and other markets. It's all part of the fun!

Drink tap water: Bottle water is recommended to avoid any stomach troubles.

Take photos without permission: Always ask before taking photos of people, especially at religious sites.

Litter: Respect the environment and dispose of your trash properly.

Be disrespectful: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local customs and traditions.